Yisa Alao: Chelsea Beat Manchester United, 2 Others To Sign Nigeria Eligible Defender
- Chelsea have beaten rivals Manchester United and two other Premier League clubs to sign Yisa Alao
- The 17-year-old defender joins from Sheffield Wednesday in a deal worth over £500,000
- Yisa Alao is eligible to play for the Super Eagles in the future despite being born in England
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Chelsea have reportedly won the race to sign highly rated teenage defender Yisa Alao, beating Manchester United and two other Premier League clubs to the signature of the Nigeria-eligible fullback.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Blues have agreed a deal with Sheffield Wednesday for the 17-year-old, with the transfer set to cost an initial fee of over £500,000, plus performance-related add-ons.
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The move represents a major step forward in Alao’s young career and underlines Chelsea’s continued strategy of snapping up elite youth talent across English football.
Chelsea edge rivals in race for Alao
According to Tribal Football, Chelsea’s pursuit of Yisa Alao intensified in recent weeks after the defender attracted strong interest from several Premier League clubs.
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Manchester United were among the confirmed suitors, while two other top-flight sides also monitored his situation closely.
Despite the competition, Chelsea moved decisively and successfully concluded negotiations with Sheffield Wednesday for the 17-year-old defender.
Reports from Foot Africa suggest the Blues’ willingness to meet Sheffield Wednesday’s valuation for Yisa Alao and present a clear development pathway proved decisive.
The agreed deal includes a fee believed to be in excess of £500,000, with additional bonuses tied to appearances and long-term performance targets.
Once completed, Alao will officially join Chelsea’s ranks and continue his development within a Premier League environment alongside other talented Nigeria-eligible players.
Alao moves to senior football from Sheffield Wednesday
Alao has been part of Sheffield Wednesday since the age of seven, rising steadily through the club’s academy and establishing himself as one of their most promising defensive prospects.
His rapid development earned him a senior debut against Bolton Wanderers in August 2025, marking a major milestone in his young career.
Since then, the teenager has received multiple first-team call-ups, featuring across the Championship, Carabao Cup, and FA Cup.
One of his standout moments came when he made his first senior start in an FA Cup tie against Premier League side Brentford, where he played for an hour despite Sheffield Wednesday’s 2-0 defeat.
The performance further confirmed his readiness for higher-level football, even though his overall appearances this season have been limited.
What Alao’s move means for Chelsea and Nigeria
Chelsea’s signing of Alao fits neatly into the Blues’ broader recruitment strategy, which prioritises signing young, high-potential players capable of developing into first-team regulars over time.
While the defender is not expected to make an immediate impact at senior level, his technical ability and versatility across the back line have impressed scouts.
Chelsea see him as a long-term project who could benefit from elite coaching and gradual integration.
Eligible to represent Nigeria at international level, Alao’s rise will also be closely monitored by Super Eagles as the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) continues to track emerging defensive talents in Europe.
Chelsea announce deal for Olutayo Subuloye
In a related development, Legit.ng reported that Chelsea have moved to secure one of their brightest young defensive prospects after confirming that Olutayo Subuloye has signed a new long-term contract with the club.
The 18-year-old defender, who is eligible to represent Nigeria, will now remain at Stamford Bridge until 2030 as the Blues continue their focus on building for the future.
Source: Legit.ng
